Finance Controller - Higher Ed & Audit Leader

Williams College; Chicago Heights (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Prairie State College seeks a Controller to direct all accounting operations, ensure accurate financial reporting, maintain internal controls, and comply with Illinois statutes and GASB standards. The role supports the CFO and leads a nine-person team.

The Controller will rebuild policies, processes, and efficiency, collaborating with departments to justify financials for new programs, large purchases, or new positions. The position presents financial material to the Board of Trustees monthly.

Qualifications

• Public-sector accounting experience required.
• GASB standards knowledge required.
• Experience managing audits.
• Experience hiring and supervising staff.
• Developing and implementing accounting policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, payroll accounting, cash receipts, and fixed assets.
• Manage timely month-end and year-end close processes.
• Maintain fund accounting structures for Illinois public community colleges.
• Develop and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Coordinate grant, capital project, and bond accounting compliance.

Skills

Public-sector accounting

GASB standards

Audits management

Staff supervision

Fund accounting

Financial reporting

Policy development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting

Active CPA certification

Tools

ERP system

Job description

Prairie State College seeks a Controller to direct all accounting operations, ensure accurate financial reporting, maintain internal controls, and comply with Illinois statutes and GASB standards. The role supports the CFO and leads a nine-person team.

The Controller will rebuild policies, processes, and efficiency, collaborating with departments to justify financials for new programs, large purchases, or new positions. The position presents financial material to the Board of Trustees monthly.